THE PRESIDENT: Welcome to the White House. One of the best things
about my job is sometimes I get introduced by my wife, who I love
dearly.

Today we continue a tradition that is as old as our nation, itself
-- setting aside a day in which Americans are encouraged to pray; pray
for their neighbors and pray for our nation. The National Day of
Prayer is a vital part of our national heritage, because prayer is a
vital part of our national life.

I'm grateful to all of you, who remind us that a great people must
spend time on bended knee, in humility, searching for wisdom in the
presence of the Almighty. I want to thank the Heritage Signature
Chorale, and Dr. Stanley Thurston for being here today. (Laughter.) I
want to thank Amy Burton, soloist of the New York City Opera.
(Applause.) And we're sure glad you brought your son. (Laughter.)

I want to thank Shirley Dobson, who is the chair of the National
Day of Prayer Task Force. Thank you for your leadership, Shirley.
(Applause.) I want to thank Dr. Lloyd Ogilvie, and Dr. Daniel Coughlin
for being here, as well. I'm honored that you both came. (Applause.)
And, Lloyd, thank you and Shirley for your beautiful comments. It
really meant a lot.

When the first Continental Congress met at Carpenters Hall in
Philadelphia, one of its first official acts was prayer. In 1779, the
Day of Prayer Proclamation asked that "Almighty God would grant the
blessings of peace to all contending nations, freedom to those who are
in bondage, and comfort to the afflicted."

During our nation's darkest hour, our nation's greatest President
called America back to prayer. President Abraham Lincoln urged his
fellow citizens to "look to the redeeming and preserving grace of
God." And Americans wisely accepted President Lincoln's counsel.

America is a country of faith. And throughout our history, in
times of crisis and in times of calm, Americans have always turned to
prayer. And this year's event has special meaning. Since the attacks
of September the 11th, millions -- millions -- of Americans of
every religious faith have been led to prayer. They have prayed for
comfort in a time of sorrow, for courage in a time of fear and for
understanding in a time of anger. They have prayed for wisdom in the
midst of war and for strength on the journey ahead.

These prayers have been made in private homes and in houses of
worship; alone and with others; in moments of doubt and in times of
thanksgiving. These prayers have been heartfelt and they have made a
tremendous difference. Prayer for others is a generous act. It sweeps
away bitterness and heals old wounds. Prayer leads to greater humility
and a more grateful spirit. It strengthens our commitment to things
that last and things that matter. It deepens our love for one
another.

Prayer also deepens faith, reminding us of great truths: Evil and
suffering are only for a time; love and hope endure. Even in the
world's most bitter conflicts, prayer reminds us of God's love and
grace, His mercy and faithfulness, the hope He provides and the peace
He promises.

Prayer is central to the lives of countless Americans, including
Laura's and mine. We have been blessed by the prayers of millions of
Americans. We could ask for no greater gift from our countrymen.

I want to thank you all for coming here to the White House to
celebrate this special day, for your devotion to prayer, and for your
love of this country, and for the Lord who has blessed it for so long.